Online Technology & IT Degree Programs

Information technology (IT) is transforming every aspect of our work and personal lives. Technology that seemed impossible or too expensive to be practical a year ago can become indispensable only a few short years later.

Online technology and IT degree programs can be an eye-opening experience for individuals interested in employment in this fast-paced and ever-changing field.

Overview of Technology & IT Degrees

Information technology can encompass a wide variety of occupations. Everything from website design to keeping the contents of online databases secure are aspects of information technology. As the field diversifies and becomes more complex, formal education such as an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree may make applicants more competitive for employment in the area of IT that interests them.

A bachelor's degree in a related technology field may be suitable for those seeking positions as computer programmers or computer system analysts. Those fields include:

Computer science

Information systems

Engineering

Individuals interested in the business side of IT may seek careers as information security analysts. In those instances, a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) may be preferred by employers. However, there are careers in IT, such as web developer and computer support specialist, where an associate's degree and relevant work experience may make an applicant a good fit for employment.

Technology & IT Courses and Curricula

The exact sort of courses offered by specific IT degree programs depends on their focus as well as the career goals of their students. Computer programming and web development degree programs, for example, may offer courses in specific programming languages like C++, BASIC, or JavaScript. Programs with a focus on database administration focus may offer coursework in database administration languages such as Structured Query Language (SQL).

There are other types of industry-specific courses that may be offered by technology and IT degrees, including:

Graphic design

Business

Finance

Health care

Systems design

People who are interested in careers in IT should review the curriculum of their chosen degree program carefully prior to applying. This may help ensure that the program will provide the background necessary to support the individual's career goals.

Career Outlook in IT

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certain careers in IT are projected to grow about as fast as the average of all occupations.

Here are some examples of IT-related fields where the BLS projects growth from 2012 to 2022:

Computer programmers: 8 percent growth

Computer systems administrators: 12 percent

Information security analysis: 37 percent

The faster-than-average growth in information security analysis is in part because more and more sensitive and personal data is being stored online, increasing the likelihood of cyberattack by hackers. A graduate degree such as an MBA may be preferred by employers in this field.

Education in the information technology field can lead to a wide variety of careers. Even individuals who are interested in seemingly non-information technology related careers, such as freelance writers or small business owners, may potentially benefit from knowledge of IT topics.

Online Degrees in Programming and Software Development

Online degree programs in computer science and programming from accredited universities and colleges: